The park serves as habitat for over 400 vertebrate species, including iconic Sierra Nevada wildlife such as black bears, mule deer, and bighorn sheep. Notable bird species include the great gray owl and peregrine falcon. The park's elevation gradient creates diverse ecosystems supporting everything from aquatic species in the Merced River to alpine-adapted mammals like the yellow-bellied marmot. While mountain lions are present, they're rarely seen, and the park's bear management program helps maintain safe interactions between wildlife and visitors.
Yosemite's diverse elevation ranges support over 1,400 plant species, including the iconic Giant Sequoias in Mariposa Grove. The park features five major vegetation zones, from foothill woodlands to alpine peaks. Lower elevations showcase California black oak and canyon live oak, while middle elevations feature mixed conifer forests of ponderosa pine, incense-cedar, and white fir. The park's most famous trees, the Giant Sequoias, can live over 3,000 years and grow to heights exceeding 300 feet.
Formed by glacial activity over millions of years, Yosemite's dramatic landscape features granite monoliths, deep valleys, and polished domes. The iconic Half Dome and El Capitan showcase the park's granitic geology, created through multiple episodes of plutonic intrusion and subsequent glacial erosion. The park's unique geological features were formed when glaciers up to 4,000 feet thick carved through the Sierra Nevada batholith, creating the characteristic U-shaped Yosemite Valley and exposing the granite formations that draw climbers from around the world.
Yosemite's human history spans nearly 8,000 years, beginning with Native American tribes, particularly the Ahwahneechee. The area gained prominence during the California Gold Rush, and in 1864, President Lincoln signed the Yosemite Grant Act, marking the first time the U.S. government protected land for public enjoyment. John Muir's passionate advocacy led to Yosemite becoming a National Park in 1890, and his work with the Sierra Club helped establish crucial conservation practices that continue to influence park management today.
Yosemite's most renowned attractions include the towering El Capitan, the distinctive Half Dome, and North America's tallest waterfall, Yosemite Falls (2,425 feet). Glacier Point offers spectacular valley views, while Tunnel View provides the classic vista of El Capitan, Half Dome, and Bridalveil Fall. The Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias, Tuolumne Meadows' subalpine landscape, and the historic Ahwahnee Hotel represent other must-see destinations. The park's 750 miles of trails include the famous John Muir Trail and numerous day hikes suitable for all skill levels.
Yosemite National Park experiences a Mediterranean climate with distinct seasonal variations. Summers are warm and dry with average highs of 90°F (32°C), while winters are cold with temperatures often dropping below freezing, especially at higher elevations where snow is common from November through March. Spring brings dramatic waterfalls as snow melts, though some trails remain snow-covered until June. Fall offers mild temperatures and fewer crowds, making it ideal for hiking, though visitors should be prepared for potential early snowfall at higher elevations.
USA
37.8650°, -119.5380°
October 1, 1890
3083
Yosemite is known for its granite cliffs, waterfalls, clear streams, giant sequoia groves, and biological diversity. The park's iconic features include Half Dome and El Capitan, massive granite monoliths that attract rock climbers from around the world. Yosemite Valley is renowned for its stunning waterfalls, including Yosemite Falls, one of North America's tallest.